COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Almost 32,000 Ohioans have cast ballots so far in the state's primary election next month.

Secretary of State Jon Husted (HYOO'-sted) says 31,709 residents have already voted absentee and 109,415 ballots have been requested since early voting began for most on April 1. Absentee voting for military and overseas voters started March 22.

The election includes same-party candidate contests, a statewide ballot issue and about 600 local issues.

The deadline to request an early ballot is noon on May 3.

Voted ballots that are mailed must be postmarked by May 5 and received by May 16. Election boards also will accept them until polls close May 6. They can't be returned at polling places.